Norway Crown Princess’s Son Sentenced to 4 Years for Rape, June 15

Marius Borg Høiby, 29, was sentenced to four years in prison Monday after an Oslo court convicted him of two counts of rape and 32 other offenses. The verdict ends a seven-week trial that exposed his drug addiction, self-made sexual videos, and more than 800 electronic messages as evidence. Høiby, the son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit, faced 40 criminal charges involving four women assaulted between 2018 and 2024. The case has damaged Norway’s royal family’s public image at a time when the crown princess apologized for maintaining contact with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

What the Court Found

Oslo District Court Judge Jon Sverdrup Efjestad convicted Høiby of two rape counts, one domestic violence charge, assault, threats, six counts of sexually offensive behavior, and three counts of violating a restraining order. He was acquitted of two rape charges due to insufficient evidence. One rape occurred in the basement of Crown Prince Haakon’s official residence. Høiby was ordered to pay 640,000 kroner (about £50,000) in compensation to four victims and received a two-year restraining order against one victim.

How the Trial Unfolded

The six-week trial concluded in March after testimony from multiple accusers and evidence including messages, images, and videos from Høiby’s cellphone. Prosecutors sought seven years and seven months in prison, while defense lawyers argued for acquittal on rape charges and a maximum 18 months for lesser offenses. Høiby pleaded not guilty to rape allegations but admitted to some lesser offenses. He did not attend the verdict reading in person, citing undisclosed health reasons, and watched via video link from prison.

Impact on the Royal Family

The trial has further damaged Norway’s royal family reputation. A Norstat survey in February showed support for the monarchy fell to a record low of 60% from 70% in January, while those favoring a different system of governance rose to 27% from 19%. By May, support recovered slightly to 64%. The case coincided with Crown Princess Mette-Marit’s apology for poor judgment in maintaining contact with late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein after his 2008 conviction.

What Happens Next

Høiby’s lawyer announced plans to appeal the verdict within hours of the ruling. Prosecutors said they would consider appealing after reviewing the full 127-page judgment. Prosecutor Sturla Henriksbø called the verdict a victory for the justice system, stating that no one escapes accountability based on family connections. Høiby remains in custody and can appeal to higher courts.

Final Thoughts

Høiby’s four-year sentence reflects the court’s finding that rape is a serious violation of integrity, regardless of the defendant’s family status. The verdict shows Norway’s justice system held a royal family member accountable, though ongoing appeals may extend the case.

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